Skip to main content

Onaway State Park

Birds eye view of tree lined shoreline and water

Onaway State Park

Contact
Phone: 989-733-8279

Onaway State Park is located on the southeast shore of beautiful Black Lake in Presque Isle County. The park encompasses 158 acres of rugged and picturesque land, including a cobblestone shoreline, large unique rock outcroppings and stands of trees.

The park is home to a modern campground, overnight lodging, a buoyed swim beach, a 3-mile trail around the park, historic overlook shelter and newly built Onaway Pavilion.


Just 10 miles east, you'll discover the breathtaking Ocqueoc Falls, Michigan's Lower Peninsula's largest waterfall. Nearby Onaway, proudly dubbed the "Sturgeon Capital of Michigan," offers a unique experience. History buffs can also explore Old Mill Creek Historic State Park or journey 45 miles to the restored 18th-century community of Fort Michilimackinac.

Amenities & activities

picnic shelter symbol

Pavilion Accessible Icon

boat launch symbol

Boat launch

cross-country ski trail symbol

Cross-country skiing

fishing symbol

Fishing

hiking

Hiking

modern restroom symbol

Modern restrooms

observation platform symbol

Observation platform

an icon for paddlesport rentals

Paddlesport rentals

paddling symbol

Paddling

pet-friendly features symbol

Pet-friendly features

picnic area symbol

Picnic area

playground symbol

Playground

sanitary station symbol

Sanitation station

swimming symbol

Swimming

vault toilet symbol

Vault toilet

water access symbol

Water access

picnic shelter symbol

Pavilion Accessible Icon

The accessible Onaway Pavilion, located in the east day-use area, features a covered porch, modern restrooms, a countertop with sink, round tables and chairs, a wood-burning fireplace and a large outdoor grill (with side table). Reservations can be made 12 months in advance at MiDNRReservations.com.

boat launch symbol

Boat launch

There is a boating access site on the west side of the park. Please keep in mind that the parking lot is shared with day-use visitors.

cross-country ski trail symbol

Cross-country skiing

fishing symbol

Fishing

At 10,130 acres, Black Lake is the seventh-largest lake in Michigan. It abounds with walleye, muskellunge, northern pike, yellow perch, smallmouth bass and more.

hiking

Hiking

modern restroom symbol

Modern restrooms

observation platform symbol

Observation platform

The area near the historic Overlook Shelter in the west day-use area provides stellar views of Black Lake.

an icon for paddlesport rentals

Paddlesport rentals

Canoes and kayaks are available to rent at the park contact station Memorial Day through Labor Day. Call 989-733-8279 for more info.

paddling symbol

Paddling

Paddling is popular in Black Lake. The lake can become choppy.

pet-friendly features symbol

Pet-friendly features

Pets are allowed along the Black Lake shoreline other than in the designated swim area. Pets must always be on a 6-foot leash and under an owner’s immediate control. All pet waste must be properly disposed of in trash receptacles.

picnic area symbol

Picnic area

There are picnic areas in both the west and east day-use areas, which include picnic tables and charcoal grills, that are available first come, first served.

playground symbol

Playground

A swing and slide are in the west day-use area.

sanitary station symbol

Sanitation station

The park’s sanitation station is in the campground. There is potable water available and two lanes.

swimming symbol

Swimming

A designated swim area is in the park’s west day-use area.

vault toilet symbol

Vault toilet

water access symbol

Water access

The park is situated on the southeast shore of Black Lake.

Stay overnight

  • For reservations call 800-447-2757 or reserve online

    The park's modern campground includes the lower and upper campgrounds. The upper campground is nestled in towering white pines, while the lower campground is surrounded by cedar trees. The lower campground offers sites on the lake, and the east side of the upper campground provides views of the lake. Please keep in mind that the modern restrooms and showers require a short walk from the lower campground.

    Number of sites:

    82

    Tags: Concession or store, Electrical service, Modern campground, Sanitation station, State park campground, Toilet and shower building, Vault toilet, Water access
  • For reservations call 800-447-2757 or reserve online

    The Shoreview Camper Cabin sleeps six people and includes two sets of bunkbeds and a futon. You'll find a mini refrigerator, a microwave and an electric wall heater. Adirondack chairs, a picnic table, a fire pit and a waist-high cook grill can be found outdoors. The cabins have electricity. You must provide your own linens.

    Number of sites:

    1

    Tags: Electrical service, Modern cabin, State park campground, Toilet and shower building, Vault toilet

Trails & area maps

Recreation Passport required

A Recreation Passport (park pass) is required for vehicle entry into all state park and forest campgrounds.

Friends group

Thanks to the Friends of the Onaway State Park for supporting the park!

Follow us on Facebook

Updates, events, park info and more. View public page even without account.

Recreate Responsibly

Keep yourself, your friends and family, and the outdoors safe.

Visitor's guide

Find additional area information, maps and more.

Rules, rates, dates

General state park rules, rates & operating dates, reservations & cancellations, camping rules and more.

Upcoming events

Photos